Khan's Signature -Inspired By Dunhill Icon

(Hillico refers to Dunhill Icon, paired with Diptyque L’Eau – a unique layering famously worn by actor Shah Rukh Khan​)

Main Accords: Citrus, Spicy, Woody, Aromatic, Floral. This combination merges bright neroli-citrus and aromatic woods from Dunhill Icon with the warm spicy potpourri vibe of Diptyque L’Eau. The result is a layered scent that is fresh and zesty at first, then increasingly spicy-woody and comforting.

Scent Notes: Since this is a two-fragrance layering, each brings its own notes:

Dunhill Icon –
Top: Neroli, Bergamot, Black Pepper, Petitgrain (a burst of citrus with green and peppery facets)

Heart: Lavender, Cardamom, Juniper Berries, Sage, plus a touch of repeating Black Pepper (aromatic herbs and spices)

Base: Vetiver, Oakmoss, Leather, Oud (Agarwood), and Iris (an earthy, smoky-woody foundation with a suede-like undertone)

Diptyque L’Eau –
Notes: Cinnamon, Rose (top); Geranium (heart); Cloves, Sandalwood (base). This is a simple yet potent profile of dry spice and woods: think cinnamon and clove spicing up a soft rose, all resting on smooth sandalwood.

Lasting Power: When layered, this combo is designed to leave a memorable trail. Dunhill Icon on its own has moderate longevity (around 4–6 hours on skin with noticeable projection in the first 2 hours), while Diptyque L’Eau is a lighter, more intimate scent (it’s “lovely and relatively light to wear,” with the clove spices never becoming too overpowering).

Together, they complement each other: Icon’s citrus and leather base provides a long-lasting backbone, and L’Eau’s spices add a warm aura, albeit in a more subtle way. Expect a solid 6-8 hours from the blend on average – Icon extends the life of the spices, and the spices in turn give a second “bloom” to Icon later in the dry-down. Projection is moderate: enough to be noticed in conversation range without being overwhelming, creating an appealing sillage that wafts gently around the wearer.

Best Season: Year-round, but especially great in transitional seasons and cool weather. Dunhill Icon’s bright citrus and neroli make it suitable for spring days and even summer (it has a certain freshness), while L’Eau’s cinnamon-clove warmth is perfect for fall and winter.

In combination, many find this works best in autumn – the spice and leather feel at home in crisp fall air. It can also be a cozy signature in winter, enveloping you like a warm scarf. In very high heat, the clove and leather could be a bit heavy, so this blend truly shines when it’s mild to chilly outside.

Best Occasion: This blend was chosen by Shah Rukh Khan as his signature scent, which speaks to its versatility and elegance. It can be worn daily – it’s refined enough for professional settings (Icon’s suave gentlemanly vibe) yet also inviting for casual encounters (L’Eau adds a comforting, nostalgic warmth).

Many find it perfect for evenings or semi-formal occasions, where you want to stand out subtly. Think dinners, upscale gatherings, or anytime you want a unique, personal aura. It’s essentially a “statement” scent that isn’t loud – suitable for a star, yet appropriate for the everyman.

As one might guess from SRK’s usage, it’s a blend that draws compliments and curiosity, making it great for social occasions where you might be in close contact (it’s intriguing but not cloying).

Summary: Layering Dunhill Icon with Diptyque L’Eau creates a fragrance that’s both sophisticated and comforting – no wonder it’s the go-to for a celebrity.

On first spray, Dunhill Icon contributes a burst of bright bergamot and neroli, with a peppery kick, giving an immediate impression of suave, modern elegance. Very quickly, L’Eau’s cinnamon and clove weave in, adding a distinctive spicy warmth that feels almost nostalgic – like walking into a room with potpourri or mulled wine simmering.

The heart of the blend is a dance between Icon’s aromatic lavender-cardamom (crisp and masculine) and L’Eau’s delicate rose and geranium. These floral touches remain subtle, just rounding off the edges of spice and citrus.

As it dries down, the woody and smoky base comes to the fore: Icon’s vetiver, oud, and oakmoss provide a dark, earthy anchor while L’Eau’s sandalwood and lingering clove wrap it in a cozy, slightly sweet haze.

The combined dry-down is incredibly alluring – imagine the clean sophistication of a barbershop cologne meets the exotic warmth of an old-world spice market. It’s smooth, unique, and memorable.

Those who have caught a whiff often describe it as “addictive” – you get brightness, spiciness, and woodiness all at once. In essence, this blend has a luxurious, signature feel, befitting the man who wears it. It’s the kind of scent where people might say, “Someone in the room smells amazing,” without immediately being able to guess what it is – truly a one-of-a-kind personal concoction that balances fresh and warm, modern and classic.